Gun Battle in Benue: 11 Police Officers Missing, Bandits Burn Patrol Vehicles
A joint security operation in Benue State ended in tragedy yesterday after a fierce confrontation with armed bandits at Agu Center, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
According to security sources, a combined team of Special Intelligence Squad (SIS) operatives, Operation Zenda officers, and the Forest Guard embarked on a patrol at about 8:00 a.m. when they came under heavy fire from suspected bandits hiding in the area.
The armed confrontation resulted in the burning of two police Hilux patrol vehicles, while the attackers also carted away a General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) belonging to Operation Zenda.
Reports indicate that an unknown number of police operatives were killed in the ambush. As of press time, 11 officers remain missing and are feared dead, with efforts to retrieve their bodies still ongoing.
The joint security team reportedly exhibited “gallantry and combat professionalism” despite being heavily outnumbered, managing to protect an Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) that came under intense gunfire. The APC was successfully withdrawn to the nearest army checkpoint.
Authorities say further details will be communicated as investigations and recovery operations continue.
